How to Make a Tree Seed Bed

Design and build a seed bed at home to grow trees.

Growing trees from seed is an alternative to purchasing often expensive container grown stock from nurseries. An integral part of the process involved with growing trees from seed is the seed bed. A well-designed seed bed will provide the nutrients necessary for a seed to germinate and grow into a healthy seedling. Basic seed requirements regarding soil, moisture and sunlight should be considered when designing and constructing a tree seed bed at home.

1

Select a location to establish a tree seed bed that is well-draining and receives at least partial sun.

2

Measure out a rectangular area with a yardstick or tape measure. Use a dimension such as 4 feet by 10 feet as a starting point and adjust the dimensions as needed based on the number of tree seeds you want to plant and the amount of available space.

3

Place wood landscape timbers or masonry landscape edging along the perimeter of the tree seed bed. Consider leaving one side open at this point to make preparation of the seed bed easier.

4

Wear gloves to protect your hands. Turn the soil within the rectangular area with a tiller. Rake and remove any rocks, roots or other debris exposed from tilling.

5

Add a 3- to 4-inch layer of well-aged, or decomposed, manure to the seed bed area. Till the manure into the soil thoroughly with the tiller. Rake the seed bed to remove any large dirt clods and to smooth it in preparation for planting seedlings.

6

Plant tree seeds by forming a small hole in the soil of the seed bed. Use a 3/4- to 1-inch diameter stick, for example, to make a hole that is no more than 1/2 inch deep in the soil. Place one seed in each hole and cover with no more than 1/4 to 1/2 inch of soil. Water the seed bed to keep it moist and support germination of the seeds.

Things You Will Need

Gloves

Yard stick or tape measure

Landscape timbers or masonry landscape edging

Tiller

Rake

Manure

Stick, 3/4- to 1-inch diameter

Warning

Follow the tiller manufacturer's directions closely for operation and to prevent potential injury.

About the Author

Tara Shore holds a Bachelor of Science in business finance and has written for online publications since 2007. She has professional experience in banking, accounting, travel and teaching. Shore is also a master gardener and a travel agent.